Common Delays in the Home-Buying Process and How to Avoid Them

Buying a home is one of the most exciting milestones in life—but it can also be one of the most stressful. While the process should ideally move smoothly from offer to completion, unexpected delays are common. These setbacks can lead to frustration, added costs, and sometimes even the loss of a dream property. The good news? Many of these delays are avoidable with preparation and proactive communication.

Below are some of the most common causes of delays in the home-buying process and practical tips to help you avoid them.

1. Mortgage Agreement in Principle and Financing Issues
The Delay: Many buyers begin house-hunting without first securing a mortgage agreement in principle. This can slow down the process once they’re ready to make an offer. In addition, issues with credit history, missing documentation, or changes in employment during underwriting can stall mortgage approval.

How to Avoid It:
• Obtain an agreement in principle before viewing properties.
• Maintain stable employment and avoid making large purchases that could affect your credit rating.
• Keep financial documents (payslips, tax returns, bank statements) organised and ready to submit.

2. Survey Surprises
The Delay: Surveys sometimes reveal problems—such as subsidence, damp, or outdated wiring—that can lead to lengthy negotiations or repair requests.

How to Avoid It:
• Arrange the survey as early as possible in the process.
• If possible, attend the survey to understand issues first-hand.
• Be flexible—decide in advance which repairs are deal-breakers and which can be negotiated.

3. Valuation Delays
The Delay: Lenders require valuations to confirm the property’s worth. If the valuation comes in lower than the purchase price, the deal can be held up while renegotiations take place. Scheduling backlogs with surveyors can also create delays.

How to Avoid It:
• Work with your lender to order the valuation immediately after the offer is accepted.
• If the valuation is lower than expected, consider options like renegotiating with the seller or increasing your deposit.

4. Title and Legal Issues
The Delay: During the conveyancing process, solicitors may uncover legal problems—such as restrictive covenants, disputes over boundaries, or outstanding charges—that must be resolved before completion.

How to Avoid It:
• Instruct a reliable solicitor or conveyancer as soon as your offer is accepted.
• Ensure a full local authority search and other relevant checks are carried out.
• Ask early on whether the seller has addressed all outstanding legal or financial obligations.

5. Paperwork Errors and Miscommunication
The Delay: Small mistakes—such as missing signatures, incorrect names, or incomplete forms—can push back completion dates. Miscommunication between buyers, sellers, solicitors, lenders, and estate agents also slows progress.

How to Avoid It:
• Carefully review every document before signing or submitting.
• Maintain clear communication with your estate agent and solicitor.
• Respond promptly to requests for information or paperwork.

6. Last-Minute Changes
The Delay: Some buyers make significant financial moves—such as changing jobs or taking out new loans—right before completion. Even small changes can force lenders to re-evaluate their offer.

How to Avoid It:
• Avoid major financial commitments until after completion.
• Keep your lender updated about any changes to your financial situation.

Our Final Thoughts
The home-buying process in the UK can be complex, but being prepared, proactive, and communicative can significantly reduce delays. By securing your mortgage early, addressing surveys quickly, and staying on top of paperwork, you can move into your new property with less stress and fewer setbacks. With the right preparation, your dream home doesn’t have to come with unexpected wait times.